Writer/Producer/Booker, WAMU News

Overview WAMU 88.5 is a public media station owned by American University. The Writer/Producer/Booker is a core member of the WAMU Newsroom team, contributing to the essential broadcast hours. Responsibilities Reporting to the Supervising Producer – WAMU Mornings, the Writer/Producer/Booker ensures fast, accurate, and compelling news content. Essential Functions Write and produce newscast content: create accurate, concise scripts; translate complex stories; monitor breaking developments; shape reports; draft intros and teasers. Produce segments and book guests: pitch, research, produce interview segments; identify diverse guests; conduct pre‑interviews; coordinate logistics; work with Senior Supervising Producer and Morning Producer. Provide digital, social, and cross‑platform updates: draft and publish timely updates, headlines, and social copy; coordinate with digital and engagement teams; monitor platforms for surface updates. Edit audio and scripts: edit interviews, spots, and segments for clarity, pacing, tone, and technical quality; provide script feedback; assemble rough cuts and support mix prep; ensure standards. Serve as on‑air backup: deliver news clearly and confidently when needed. Competencies Serving customers. Displaying creativity. Prioritizing and organizing. Acquiring and analyzing information. Supporting coworkers. Position Details Full‑time, 35 hours per week, hybrid (3‑4 days onsite). Position bridges morning and afternoon news teams. Some holiday or breaking‑news coverage may be required. Salary range: $68,656 annually. Union: Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG‑AFTRA). Background check required. Required Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. 1‑3 years of relevant experience in journalism, news writing, producing, or digital reporting. Demonstrated ability to write fast, clean, accurate news copy. Familiarity with audio production, interviewing, or guest booking. Ability to work under deadline pressure in morning news environments. Preferred Education and Experience Master’s degree or equivalent. 2‑4 years of relevant experience. Knowledge of Washington region politics, communities, and issues. Experience producing or writing for radio, digital, or audio‑first platforms. Experience with audio editing tools (Adobe Audition, Hindenburg, Pro Tools). Experience booking diverse guests and sourcing underrepresented voices. Additional Eligibility Qualifications Strong writing and editorial judgment. Ability to manage multiple tasks calmly and efficiently. Commitment to inclusive sourcing and storytelling. Willingness to learn new tools, systems, and newsroom workflows. Interest in developing toward a News Producer role. Benefits Competitive benefits package offered by American University. EEO Statement American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities. Legal Notices American University is an E‑Verify employer. Employees in staff positions must deliver services in District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on‑site at the university. (Background check required.) #J-18808-Ljbffr American University